5. Cooper
CHAPTER 5
COOPER
T his is all for the kids of Happy Horizons Ranch. That’s what I keep telling myself. It’s the Ice Breakers’ first official day of practice. Overall, we have a good group of players on this all-star team—it could have been so much worse. Hopefully, pure skill and talent will carry us through the next few weeks. I know some of the guys on the team better than others, but of course I’m probably the least social of all the players. Something I’m totally comfortable with. There’s not enough time in the day for everyone to fight over the spotlight, so I’ll happily bow out.
Regardless of this, I’m glad to spend the next several hours on the ice. If only I could get some rest. Usually I have no issues with sleep, but since arriving in this town, I’ve been restless. It could be all the fresh air, or it could be because I can’t stop thinking about Blair. I’ve made the biggest mistake someone in my position can make. I know we can’t control who we are attracted to, but I’ve always been able to shut off my emotions. I’m a little freaked out about how in such a short amount of time I’ve become so captivated by Blair. I’ve never experienced anything like this before and it's really caught me off guard. Of course I know I need to maintain a level of professionalism. It doesn’t help that she’s beautiful and positive and she doesn’t seem to be the least bit bothered by my moodiness. At least not yet. The good news is, I’ll be preoccupied today. When I’m playing, I can shut everything else out.
As soon as I arrive at the rink, our coach, Doug Strickland, is already barking orders. I’ve had some of the toughest coaches in the league, so this doesn’t faze me one bit. This guy sounds like a softie compared to others out there. Scotty MacFarland is standing with him, while Dan Roberts and our goalie, Dawson Hayes, have already hit the ice. I think I remember those two being good friends.
“Cooper Montgomery, you actually made it,” Coach Strickland says when he sees me, his tone grave.
I’m not sure what he means by that greeting. Maybe he didn’t think I’d show up. In his defense, it was a possibility if it weren’t for Estelle and Blair joining forces. Like I said, I didn’t stand a chance with those two conspiring together.
“Morning, Coach.”
He struts over to me, and I immediately notice he’s aged quite a bit since the last time I saw him, which has probably been several years.
“So, I received a fruit basket from your publicist, Blair Radcliffe. I think that’s a first in my career.”
Um, what?
I’m not sure how to read Coach’s reaction, but he seems both confused and appreciative. I wish I could say I’m surprised, but for some reason a fruit basket seems like something Blair would do, even though I don’t know her that well.
“Hmm … the only thing I can tell you is she’s only been my publicist for a few weeks, and I just met her for the first time a few days ago. I know nothing about a gift.”
I can’t take any credit for the fruit basket, and welcome gifts for coaches or anyone else aren’t my style anyway.
The coach runs his hand through his thinning hair. “It was an impressive gesture, very unexpected.”
Blair is very impressive in so many ways, but I don’t say this out loud.
“I’ll have to thank her when I see her,” he continues. “I’m assuming she’ll be at the media event later.”
Ha. I have no doubt Blair will be like a kid in a candy store at that thing. “Yes, for sure.”
Scotty comes up beside Coach Strickland.
“Hey, Cooper.” He holds up his hand to give me a fist bump.
“I was just telling Cooper his publicist sent me a fruit basket,” Coach tells him.
“Oh, yeah. I got one too,” Scotty exclaims. “My daughter thought it was the greatest thing ever. Nice touch.”
“I had no idea,” I say, trying to avoid any more discussion about Blair. This is supposed to be my happy place where I can drown out the rest of the world.
“All right, time to get warmed up,” Coach says as if he’s reading my mind.
“I’m on it.”
I race to get changed into my gear. Before I hit the ice, I send Blair a quick text.
Fruit baskets, really?
The corner of my mouth curls up as I drop my phone in my bag. One thing is for sure, Blair might be one of the only people who can make me smile. And that proves I’m in big trouble. I need to take a step back. It’s probably a good thing I’ll be surrounded by other players, coaches, and fans for the next six weeks. More time on the ice means less time alone with Blair.
You never know what will happen when you bring some of a sports’ top talent together. Egos, personalities, playing styles—anything is possible. It’s our first time playing all together, and the Ice Breakers are a mess. Hopefully it will get better before we’re in front of the fans. Both Coach Doug and Scotty are trying to lead us, but we can’t get into a rhythm. I think we’re all frustrated because we’re professionals who should be able to adapt in any setting.
Scotty is making good suggestions and even joins us in the rink. He guides us through several drills and adjustments and spends some time with Ted “The Bear” Powell and Noah Beaumont on defense. I remember Ted from my college days. His brother Tim played too; the Powells are absolute beasts. It’s obvious the others are just as irritated as I am and with good reason. I can’t remember the last time I played this poorly. Why can’t I find my rhythm?
And then there’s the young Nate Simpson who thinks he’s better than he is. There’s always one on every team.
I’m not sure what Zach Hart will think when he sees us. He might regret all he’s put into this cause, especially if we embarrass ourselves and him. As soon as we finish practicing, Coach Doug gathers us to give an inspiring pep talk. We silently listen as he reminds us of how short our season will be and how every second we’re on the ice matters. When he mentions the Happy Horizons charity, I’m instantly reminded of why I’m here … and Blair. I vi gorously run my hand over my forehead and through my hair.
“I expect better tomorrow,” Coach demands.
Ha. So do I.
“Well, that was fun,” Dan says as we all make our way to the locker room.
“Yeah, fun,” I mutter. “I can’t remember the last time I felt so out of sync.”
“Probably one of the times you had to play Dan and the Blizzard,” Dawson says with a smirk.
“Doubtful,” I retort.
“I’m kidding,” he says, patting me on the back.
“That reminds me—is there a statue of you somewhere in this town?” I ask Dan.
“He wishes,” Dawson exclaims.
“No statue, yet,” Dan says with a sly smile. “But they do sell my jersey and spirit wear in Maple Falls Made gift shop. You should run over there and get one before they sell out. I’m number twenty-nine, in case you forgot.”
I give a thumbs-up. “Yes, I’ll get right on that. By the way, my publicist is good friends with someone from your past,” I tell him. “I can’t remember her name, but she runs the farmers market.”
Dan’s expression changes, and his confident smile fades. “Keira.”
“That’s it,” I say.
Dan grows silent for a few seconds. “Anyway, are you ready for the media event?” he asks in an effort to change the subject.
Hmm … I wonder if I struck a nerve with the ever-cool Dan the Man.
“Of course I’m not ready to sit in front of the press,” I say. “If I could skip it, I would. ”
I gather my gear, and when I finally check my phone, I find several messages from Blair.
Yes. Everyone likes a fruit basket.
What did they say about them? I thought it would be a nice thing to do since they are giving of their time to coach your team.
Another message pops up on my screen.
Are you jealous you didn’t get one?
I smile to myself. There I go again. This woman really knows how to get to me. I start typing my response.
They were very appreciated. Coach Strickland said it was a first in his career, and Scotty MacFarland said his daughter thought it was the best thing ever.
My phone buzzes again after a few seconds.
I knew it. If you want a basket, let me know. This message is followed by a winky face emoji.
Wow. Blair Radcliffe is unlike anyone I’ve ever met.
A low groan escapes my lips as I put my phone away and head back to the lodge to shower and prepare myself for being in front of the press.
Maybe I can suddenly come down with a fever, but Blair is probably too smart for that.
I’m sure she will have plenty of advice for me about how to handle the reporters’ questions because she seems to have her own ideas about how things should be done. Now we just have to get through our first media event—my least favorite part of this career.
The Regent‘s Hotel seems more like the places I usually stay with the Tennessee Wolves. It’s older, but more upscale than the lodge we’re staying at. Of course the most beautiful sight in this hotel is Blair. As soon as I walk in, I spot her. She’s wearing fitted black pants and a gold sweater. Her shiny hair cascades down her back and her smile lights up the room—as usual.
I stand back and watch as she wanders around talking to people. It’s obvious she’s in her element. I couldn’t be more opposite. Everything about this makes me uncomfortable. Yes, I know I should be used to the pressure of all eyes on me. My career is out in the open for all to see and pick apart when I’m not at my best. Estelle always handled the meet and greets with poise and skill. From what I can see, Blair is taking it to new levels. She’s so engaging, it would be impossible not to be drawn to her. At least that’s what I’m telling myself.
Blair glances toward the entrance, and her eyes meet mine. It’s too late to move or play it off. I was staring at her, and she caught me.
“You’re here,” she calls as she rushes over to me. Why does it feel like people are surprised when I show up?
“Where else would I be?” I grumble.
She leans her head to the side. “Anywhere else.”
That’s a valid point.
She launches into instructions and gives me some helpful tips, including avoiding the shark reporter Yolanda Simms. That shouldn’t be a problem since I heard her main target is Zach Hart.
“You know I have some experience with these events, right? I’ve been playing hockey for a while.”
She nods. “Yes, but this is different. You’re all here for Happy Horizons Ranch, not for your personal gain. Oh, and that reminds me, I need to find Angel and introduce myself. We’ve spoken on the phone, but I haven’t met her yet. And Zach and Troy Hart. By the way, I sent them all fruit baskets too.”
Of course she did. My head is spinning trying to keep up with everything she’s saying.
I furrow my brow. “How much coffee have you had today? Are you able to blink?”
“Very funny,” she snaps. “I’ve only had two cups, and that was hours ago. I’m just excited because I love this part of my job. It’s so rewarding to finally be in this moment after all the preparation, planning, and Zoom calls you didn’t listen on.”
She flashes me a wicked smile, which makes me wonder if there are ways around our client-publicist relationship. Wow—this is going to be a problem.
“Um, anyway … remember to be nice and try to think of something that will make you smile.” She turns and walks away before I have a chance to respond.
If only she knew she makes me smile.
I’m such a goner.
The good thing about this group of players is that most of them enjoy these press conferences and talking about themselves. This allows me to sit back and pretend like I’m enjoying myself, when really I’m thinking about how to get back to my usual level of skill on the ice. It was almost embarrassing how I performed at practice this morning. It can only get better from here, right?
We’re all sitting at a table in a large meeting room, reporters and photographers crowding in front of us. There’s a large banner behind us with our team logo and sponsors’ names.
My attention returns to the latest question, and I hear Coach Doug mention Scotty’s last season on the ice. I notice Blair move beside Scotty and say something to him. She has her usual captivating smile plastered on her face.
Scotty clears his throat and grabs hold of the microphone, the crowd quieting down.
He begins with a funny story about the last time he tried to give a speech and then talks about Happy Horizons Ranch. Did he just wink at the woman who runs the charity? I think he did. His sincere response is met with respectful applause. Whatever Blair said to him worked.
The reporters continue to ask questions and Dan Roberts is more than happy to respond.
“I have a question for Cooper Montgomery,” a woman in a black suit calls.
Ugh. That’s me .
Blair glances at me and gives a gentle nod as if she’s guiding me along. Then she points to her gorgeous mouth and reminds me to smile.
“Yes, hello,” I say awkwardly, forcing the corners of my mouth to curl up slightly. I doubt anyone will believe this scary grin is sincere. All eyes are on me, so here goes nothing.
“Mr. Montgomery, there were rumors you were going to pull out of this team in the eleventh hour. What made you decide to participate?”
I press my lips together, and out of the corner of my eye I see Blair watching me intently. For some reason knowing she’s in my corner gives me a boost of confidence.
“Like Scotty said, Happy Horizons Ranch is a great cause, and Troy and Zach Hart need our support. Six weeks away from our lives to make a difference for the kids is a small sacrifice in the long run. Rumors are rumors, and like someone recently said to me—you can’t believe everything you hear.”
Yes, I’m quoting Blair, and that’s all I have to say. I avoid meeting her gaze as I lean far away from the microphone. The questions continue, but I’m done for the day.
At the end of the media frenzy, I’m the first one to get out of my chair. Blair is talking to Angel, the director of Happy Horizons, so it’s the perfect opportunity for me to sneak out without having to do any more socializing, smiling, or any other tasks she might decide to throw at me.
I barely make it outside when my phone buzzes with a text from Blair.
Good job up there. There are a few people you should meet.
That must be her way of reminding me I can’t leave yet. I could tell her I’ve had enough of the social stuff for one day, or I could be a team player. I sigh and turn to head back inside.
“Cooper,” Blair calls, waving me over. “This is Angel Davis. She runs Happy Horizons Ranch.”
“Hello, it’s nice to meet you,” I say, holding out my hand to shake hers.
“And you,” she says. “I still can’t believe how many celebrity hockey players have taken time out of their lives to come to our little town of Maple Falls. The kids who come here need to catch a break in life, so thank you for jumping in to help.”
“You’re welcome,” I reply.
“Giving back is very important to Cooper,” Blair adds. “He’s been involved in many children’s organizations over the years.”
Angel shifts her weight from side to side. “That’s so amazing, and kind of unexpected given how busy you must be.”
“I’m sure running a charity is busy.”
“You have no idea,” she replies and then quickly holds up her hands. “I mean, maybe you do. I didn’t mean to make assumptions. I’m sure you know lots of things about lots of subjects other than hockey.” She bites her lip. “How about I just say that we’re honored you came to our town, and I’m pleased to meet you.”
“Me too,” I say. I may not love being in this town, but I’m glad I can help her charity.
Angel excuses herself, leaving Blair and me alone.
“See? You can do hard things,” Blair teases.
“Ha, ha. At least this press conference went better than our first practice,” I tell her, running my hand through my hair.
She frowns. “Really? What happened?”
I throw my hands up. “It was a disaster. We couldn’t get on the same page, and I played worse than I have in years.”
“It was your first time playing together,” she reminds me. “Give yourself some grace.”
“We looked more like amateurs than professional athletes.”
“I’m sure it will get better,” she insists. “A few more practices, and the Ice Breakers will be ready to clinch a victory.”
I lean my head to the side. “Are you always this positive?”
She shrugs. “Not always, but I try. Plus it’s part of my job to boost you up. I know I have some very big shoes to fill. Estelle was a powerhouse.”
Hmm … she’s doing a good job so far.
“That being said, can you stay for a few more minutes before you try to sneak out again? ”
Ah, I should’ve known she’d caught me.
I sigh. “Fine. But only a few minutes. I need to try to get some sleep tonight.”
“You haven’t been sleeping?”
I shake my head. “Maybe that explains why I suddenly forgot how to play hockey.”
I conveniently leave out that I’ve been thinking about her. Just because she’s my publicist doesn’t mean she needs to know everything.